WARNING SIGNS

Adolescents experience many life stressors as they transition from child to adult, and it isn’t always easy to tell the difference between depression or suicidal intention and normal teenage moodiness.

Making things even more complicated, suicidal teens do not necessarily appear sad, nor will they always withdraw from others. For some, symptoms of irritability, stress, aggression, and rage are more prominent.

It is important to note that because each young person’s experience is different, there is no list that names every situation affecting adolescents.

However, take all situations seriously and maintain open conversation with your child. The more warning signs you see, the higher the risk. If you suspect something is wrong and are concerned, speak up! As a parent, you can save your child’s life.

What are the Warning Signs?

Changes in Mood

Increased or inappropriate anger or rage

Extreme mood swings

Severe depression or anxiety

Feelings of unbearable pain

Excessive guilt or shame

Feelings of hopelessness

Changes in Behavior

Withdrawing or isolating from others

Tearfulness or frequent crying

Sudden decline in school performance

Examples: Poor attendance, a drop in grades, or frustration with schoolwork in a formerly good student

Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities

Changes in eating/sleeping habits

Giving away prized possessions

Impulsive or reckless behaviors

Examples: Teens may engage in dangerous or high-risk behaviors, such as reckless driving, out-of-control drinking or unsafe sex.

Talking, reading, or writing about death or suicide

Alcohol or drug use

Self harm

If you’re unsure if an adolescent in your life is depressed or just “being a teenager,” consider how long the symptoms have been present, how severe they are, and how different the teen is acting from his or her usual self. Maybe your child is merely having a bad day, but maybe it’s something more – don’t wait to get them help.

Call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline If your child is experiencing a mental health crisis or medical emergency, call toll-free at 800.273.8255. You’ll be connected to a skilled, trained counselor at a crisis center in your area, anytime 24/7.

Connect with Community Behavioral Health Services To schedule an appointment with a mental health professional in the Indianapolis area, call 317.621.5700.

EVERY NUMBER YOU'LL NEED

To complement HaveHope.com, Community and WTHR-TV Channel 13 have joined forces to launch Have Hope, a two-year public service effort to raise awareness about suicide in Indiana and to help more Hoosiers get the help they need. Learn more about the partnership >>